Larry Layden’s Post

Passport processing is now taking an average of 4-6 weeks...Just in time for the next ravel season! The U.S. State Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs made an official statement stating that passport processing is well below the previous 6-8 week window. The shorter processing window is available for applications submitted traditionally by mail or via the new online renewal service. Keep in mind that the processing window begins when the State Department receives the application. If you're in a hurry the expedited time is 2-3 weeks. #TravelTip #TravelTipTuesday #TravelPro #travelPlanner #PassportProcessing #TravelSeason #ExpeditedPassport

Effective May 22, 2024, the guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding family-based immigrant visa petitions has been updated. This includes updates for Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. If you're submitting Form I-130, it’s crucial to inform USCIS of the beneficiary’s current address and whether they prefer consular processing with the Department of State National Visa Center (NVC) or adjustment of status in the United States, if eligible. Providing accurate information helps USCIS determine whether to keep the approved petition for adjustment of status or send it to the NVC for consular processing. Failure to provide accurate information can delay the process. For example, if USCIS keeps a petition because of inaccurate information, you may need to file Form I-824, Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition, with the appropriate fee, to transfer the petition to the NVC. If you require further information or clarification, please contact Midas Immigration Services. 📞 (786) 733-8043 🌐 https://lnkd.in/eguFJWQp 📧 midasimmigrationservices@gmail.com 🔗https://lnkd.in/ej4AgC6K

Filing an immigration application can seem straightforward at first glance. With forms available online and a wealth of information at your fingertips, embarking on a DIY immigration application might feel like a breeze. But here's the twist: the immigration landscape is often more complex than it appears. What seems like a straightforward process can quickly become a labyrinth of legal requirements, deadlines, and paperwork. While filing an application yourself is an option, enlisting the help of an immigration professional can transform your experience from a potential headache into a smooth journey towards your dream. Remember, investing in professional guidance isn't just about making the process easier — it's about making your aspirations more attainable. Ready to take the next step with confidence? Let's talk about how our expert team can support your journey. Your dream doesn't have to wait. 📞 (786) 733-8043 🌐 https://lnkd.in/e2ZYh3G9 📧 midasconsularservices@gmail.com 🔗https://lnkd.in/ej4AgC6K #ImmigrationJourney #ProfessionalGuidance #DreamsWithinReach #MidasImmigration

The Doctrine of Non-Review of Consular Decisions by U.S. Embassies: How to Start the Administrative Review Process By Mohamed Aboshanab, CEO of Global Expat If you've ever faced a visa refusal at a U.S. Embassy, you might have heard about the "Doctrine of Non-Review." This doctrine limits the ability to challenge or appeal consular decisions, but that doesn’t mean all hope is lost. In this article, we will break down what this doctrine means and how you can start the administrative review process if you believe your visa denial was unfair. 🎯 What is the Doctrine of Non-Review? 🛑 The Doctrine of Non-Review refers to the long-standing legal principle that consular decisions made by U.S. embassies or consulates, particularly regarding visa applications, are not subject to judicial review. In simple terms, courts in the U.S. usually cannot interfere with or overturn a decision made by a consular officer overseas. This means that when a visa is denied, applicants cannot typically sue in a U.S. court to overturn that denial. The consular officer’s decision is seen as final. Why Does This Doctrine Exist? 🤔 The idea behind this doctrine is to ensure that the U.S. government, particularly its consulates, can control who enters the country without interference from external sources. It also maintains national security by granting U.S. consulates abroad the authority to vet visa applicants based on their criteria. 🔑 Expert Insight: As a visa applicant, it's essential to be prepared and provide all required documentation upfront since challenging a visa refusal afterward can be difficult. What to Do After a Visa Refusal? 😕 A visa denial can be frustrating, especially when you feel that your application was complete and accurate. While the Doctrine of Non-Review limits the possibility of a legal appeal, there is an alternative process known as administrative review. Let’s look at how you can initiate this process. How to Start the Administrative Review Process 📝 🌟 Good luck with your administrative review! 🌟 #VisaSuccess #VisaReviewTips #USEmbassy #GlobalExpat #ExpertVisaHelp

Can I travel outside of the US while my adjustment of status is pending? This is a frequent question. If you have specific circumstances, such as an EMERGENCY or a NEED to travel due to business or family reasons, it's crucial to discuss these with a qualified immigration professional. Contact Midas Immigration Services so we may provide guidance tailored to your situation and help ensure that your travel plans align with your immigration goals and legal requirements. 📞 (786) 733-8043 🌐 https://lnkd.in/e2ZYh3G9 📧 midasconsularservices@gmail.com 🔗https://lnkd.in/ej4AgC6K Remember, the decision to travel while your adjustment of status application is pending should not be taken lightly. Make sure to consider all risks and consult with us before making any travel arrangements. #ParoleinPlace #MidasImmigration #AdjusmentofStatus #TravelDocuments #PlanWisely

Just in time for today’s start of the pilot program for the domestic renewal of H-1B visas: DOS publishes extensive related FAM guidance to Consular Officers.   Much of the guidance relates to cases that do not qualify for domestic renewal and may thus generate INA 221(g) refusals: (1) the applicant is found ineligible for a waiver of the in-person interview requirement, one of the key requirements of the program; (2) application screening reveals derogatory information pertinent to visa eligibility; and (3) preliminary review gives rise to a suspicion that the applicant’s activities have not, or may not, conform with what is permissible in H-1B status.   Hopes and prayers for a successful pilot program, which runs through April 1, 2024. The last time nonimmigrant work visas were reissued domestically George W. Bush was President, Colin Powell was Secretary of State and Maura Harty was Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs. https://lnkd.in/dv8Npc3

Russia issued 170,000 e-visas in August-December 2023 — Foreign Ministry The Consular Department noted that nationals of nearly 60 foreign countries can make short trips to Russia using their ordinary passports "without the need to obtain visas" Russia issued 170,000 electronic visas to foreign nationals in the last five months of 2023, the Russian Foreign Ministry’s Consular Department said on its Telegram channel. "In August 2023, the electronic visa project kicked off, with 170,000 standardized e-visas being issued within the last five months of the past year (nationals of 55 countries are eligible for them)," the department said. Nationals of nearly 60 foreign countries can make short trips to Russia using their ordinary passports "without the need to obtain visas under the terms stipulated by relevant international agreements," the department noted. "Visit the consular information web portal for the most recent information on the visa/visa-free parameters of trips," it added. Russia initiated the issuance of standardized e-visas to nationals of 55 countries starting from August 1 of last year. #business #finance #financialservices

How are your consular processing work flows? One of the best ways to prepare for consular processing cases is by identifying and writing down the directions for each of the possible activities that clients need to do in consular processing. Do they need to fill out the DS-160? Do they need to pay a visa fee on the AIS portal? Do they need to request an expedite? There are a limited number of activities that clients may need and a limited number of possible visa portals and consulates. My practice is frequently about speed from visa petition approval to visa interview. I have worked hard to break down how and when to do each step. I'm ready to go. But I was on vacation two weeks ago with my wife's family. I was not ready for my father-in-law to need my help. A foreign national member of his congregation was in a terrible car accident and they needed to get his mother through visa processing rapidly. We did it. Find out how I broke down the situation in this week's Consular Update. See the comment below to subscribe.

This development marks a significant diplomatic win for Nigeria, demonstrating the country's ability to navigate complex international relations and negotiate beneficial agreements. However, it also raises important questions about the UAE's previous rationale for imposing the visa ban and the potential implications of this reversal on Nigerian citizens traveling to the UAE. As Nigeria celebrates this victory, it must also prioritize ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad. #UAEvisaBan #NigeriaUAERelations #VisaPolicy #DiplomacyMatters #NigerianDiaspora #InternationalRelations #Nigeria https://lnkd.in/e4MW-Rms

Russia issues nearly 180,000 e-visas since start of 2024, senior diplomat says More than half of the e-visas were issued to the citizens of China, next come Germany and Turkey, Alexey Klimov, head of the Foreign Ministry’s Consular Department, said MOSCOW, May 29/ Russia issued about 178,000 unified electronic visas between January and mid-May 2024, Alexey Klimov, head of the Foreign Ministry’s Consular Department, said in an interview with TASS. "About 178,000 unified electronic visas were issued between the beginning of the year and mid-May. More than half of the e-visas (92,000) were issued to the citizens of China. Next come Germany (14,000), Turkey (13,000), India (10,500) and Saudi Arabia (over 8,500)," he specified. Russia launched unified electronic visas for citizens of 55 countries on August 1, 2023. A total of 170,000 e-visas were issued in 2023. Moscow plans to expand the list of countries whose nationals can obtain e-visas to Russia after August 1. #business #finance #financialservices